US writers guild calls strike, picketing to begin on Tuesday

2023 strike rules posted on the WGA website:

In the event of a strike, each WGAW and WGAE member is required to follow these strike rules. The purpose of the rules is to win the best possible contract for writers. Please take the time to read and review the strike rules in their entirety. Strict adherence by all Guild members leads to a more effective strike and ultimately a better MBA [minimum basic agreement].

The principle behind the rules is simple: you (or your agent or other representative acting on your behalf) may not meet or negotiate with a struck company; and you may not provide writing services, sell or option literary material to a struck company.

As explained in detail in the rules themselves, prohibited conduct includes:

• Performance of writing services for or delivery of literary material to struck company; and
• negotiations and discussions regarding present or future writing projects.

There are also certain notice requirements, including:

• notice to the companies to return writer-owned “spec” literary material; and
• notice to your agent or other representative to discontinue conducting negotiations on your behalf.

There are rules related to picket lines and other strike support activity, including:

• honoring all Guild picket lines;
• performing assigned strike support duties; and
• informing the Guild of strikebreaking activity.

Finally, please note these features of the rules:

• Covered work: The rules prohibit the performance of writing services for a struck company in connection with audiovisual or audio works intended for initial exhibition in any market covered by the MBA, including feature motion pictures, television and new media, as well as the option or sale of literary material for that purpose.
• Animation: The rules apply to all animated series covered by a WGA contract. Writers who wish to perform writing services in connection with fully animated theatrical features and television programs are advised to consult with WGA staff to determine whether such writing is prohibited before performing, or contracting to perform, any writing services. Members should assume that projects combining live action and animation are covered by the strike rules.
• Fiction Podcasts: The rules apply to fiction podcasts covered by a WGA contract. Writers who wish to perform writing services for fiction podcasts are advised to consult with WGA staff to determine whether such writing is prohibited before performing, or contracting to perform, any writing services.
• Hyphenates: The rules prohibit hyphenates (members who are employed in dual capacities) from performing any writing services, including the “(a) through (h)” functions.

Excerpt from Rule 12 covering additional strike rules pertaining to writers also employed in additional capacities can be found here.